The Grandma Mix-Up (I Can Read Bks.: Level 2 )

Young Pip doesn't know what to do when two very different grandmothers come to baby sit, each with her own way of doing things.

PreSchool-Grade 2-- A mediocre beginning reader. Inadvertently, Pip's parents each ask one of Pip's grandmothers to care for him while they are away. Grandma Nan is in a mini-dress and gray boots, sporting a pink bow in her hair. She is quickly depicted as the grandmother who likes order, routine, healthy activities, and healthy food. Grandma Sal is a matronly woman with gray hair and glasses. Her style of living is more relaxed, and includes watching television, ordering out for pizza, and paying little if any attention to housekeeping. The tension between the grandmothers is obvious, and an unhappy Pip eventually demands that the two grandmothers do things his way. The illustrations are one-dimensional and seem more like sketches filled with garish colors. The book jacket describes the story as a "delightful story of two lovable grandmas and the child who gets stuck between them," but none of them are lovable. Both grandmothers are overdone, and Pip is a demanding little kid who is difficult to like. Most situations seemed contrived, and won't ring true for young readers. --Sharron McElmeel, Cedar Rapids Community Schools, Iowa
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From an accomplished author/illustrator comes a sweetly child-centered I Can Read. Pip's parents are going on a trip and there's a mix-up. Mom asked Grandma Nan to baby-sit while Dad asked Grandma Sal. The grandmothers arrive, and agree that they'll both stay. Active and stylish, Grandma Nan demands a neat room and strictly nutritious meals. Laid-back and cozy Grandma Sal would rather watch the ball game with her feet up, or offer Gummy Bearsstet caps before lunch. Pip is uncomfortable with the opposing forces. "I want to do things OUR way, like everyday when Mom and Dad are home," he asserts. Chastened, Grandma Nan and Grandma Sal agree on this sensible course. McCully has once again focused her wry humor on a situation of genuine concern to children: the security of family routines. She illustrates this charmer with warmly humorous watercolors, with all the droll details for which she is known. Ages 4-8.
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.